Gleneagles likely to clash with Golden Horn at York

A clash between Golden Horn and Gleneagles, respectively Europe's best middle-distance horse and best miler among the classic generation, is closer to being realized.

Coolmore released a statement Tuesday that Gleneagles could be re-routed from Sunday's Prix Jacques le Marois (G1) over a mile at Deauville to next Wednesday's Juddmonte International (G1) over 1 1/4 miles at York.

According to the release, Deauville has received 10 millimeters of rain recently with more expected on Thursday.

"The chances of him running in the Prix Jacques le Marois on Sunday are unfortunately fading with the forecast," trainer Aidan O'Brien said.

"I've always considered Gleneagles a true miler but he needs good fast ground to be seen at his best, therefore York will probably be his next race as we are running out of options with him.

"It's a very sporting gesture by his owners."

The International would mark Gleneagles' first start beyond a mile. He has won all three starts this season, including the 2000 Guineas (G1), Irish 2000 Guineas (G1), and St James's Palace (G1) at Royal Ascot.

Golden Horn, trained by John Gosden, is undefeated in five lifetime starts, four of which have come this year. Following a victory in the Dante (G2) at York, Golden Horn outclassed his rivals as a strong favorite in the Epsom Derby (G1) and the Eclipse (G1) at Sandown, the latter against older horses.

(Photo courtesy of Coolmore.com)